Hi everyone, i need some help identifying this bird. (1 Viewer)

[Tbird47]

Hi,

So my opinion is that this is a dark eyed junco with some sort of genetic or albinoism issue that caused it to have a white upper head area instead of black. I have lived here for a couple decades and have never seen this bird before. I've used bird identifying apps and they all come back as dark eyed junco. Any info or opinions would be welcomed. I'm in southern california.

Thank you,

 

[Bewick]

It is a Dark-eyed junco, just partially leucistic.

 

[Kits]

Welcome to Birdforum.

 

[nartreb]

Yep, a leucistic dark-eyed junco, Oregon subspecies. The pinkish bill really narrows the options, and despite the leucism we can see enough of the junco color patterns to confirm it.

 

[Tbird47]

Thank you.

Welcome to Birdforum.

 

[Tbird47]

Thanks, i appreciate the help. Is this a rare occurrence or somewhat common with birds?

Yep, a leucistic dark-eyed junco, Oregon subspecies. The pinkish bill really narrows the options, and despite the leucism we can see enough of the junco color patterns to confirm it.

 

[Tbird47]

Thank you.

It is a Dark-eyed junco, just partially leucistic.

 

[delia todd]

Hi Tbird and a warm welcome to you from all the Staff and Moderators.

You may be interested in reading more about leucism and albinism in our Dictionary: Dictionary A-C - BirdForum Opus this is the page for albinism; it includes links there for the other colour-related conditions.

I'm sure you will enjoy it here and I look forward to hearing your news.

 

[delia todd]

Thanks, i appreciate the help. Is this a rare occurrence or somewhat common with birds?

Leucism is actually fairly common, and I've seen birds ranging from one stray white feather, to lots of spots round the head. That feather remains white, even after a moult.

True albinism is extremely rare. I've never seen one.